Aikido

The history of aikido traces its roots to ancient Japanese martial arts. Founder Morihei Ueshiba studied various schools of jujutsu, kenjutsu, and other traditional systems in the early 20th century.

Foundation of modern aikido

1. 1920s — Morihei Ueshiba begins systematizing the knowledge acquired, creating his own system.
2. 1927 — Ueshiba opens the first school in Tokyo named «Aiki-bujutsu».
3. 1942 — The art receives the official name «Aikido», emphasizing the philosophical aspect of the path of self-improvement.

Postwar development

1. 1948 — The Aikikai Foundation is created in Tokyo to spread aikido worldwide.
2. 1950s — Aikido spreads beyond Japan, with the first schools opening in the USA and Europe.
3. 1970s — National federations are established in various countries, and the first world aikido festival is held.

Today, aikido is practiced in more than 140 countries worldwide, being one of the most popular Japanese martial arts.

In Russia, interest in aikido emerged in the late 1980s, during the period of perestroika and the opening of borders for cultural exchange with Japan. The first sections appeared in Moscow, Leningrad (St. Petersburg), and Vladivostok.

Key stages

1. 1988 — Opening of the first official aikido groups in the USSR
2. 1990s — Creation of the national federation, invitation of Japanese instructors, beginning of issuing official degrees
3. 2000s — Active development of the club network, holding seminars with masters from Japan, participation in international festivals
4. 2010s – present — Formation of a stable structure of federations in CIS countries, regular certifications, training of national instructors

Current state

Today, aikido is practiced in all regions of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and other CIS countries. National federations operate, cooperating with the Aikikai Foundation (Japan) and the European Aikido Federation.

In CIS countries, there is a branched network of specialized dojo (training halls). Seminars with the participation of Japanese masters of 6–8 dan, national championships in technique, and aikido festivals are regularly held.

Competitions and gradings are regulated by the standards of the Aikikai Foundation (Japan) and national aikido federations.

Demonstration format

1. Area: Tatami 10×10 meters (dojo)
2. Time: Technique demonstration 3–5 minutes (depending on the category)
3. Equipment: Kimono (aikidogi), hakama (traditional pants for senior grades), wooden weapons for working with techniques

Grading system

1. Kyu — student grades (from 6th to 1st kyu)
2. Dan — master grades (from 1st to 10th dan)
3. Gradings are held 2–4 times a year depending on the federation

Technique evaluation

Points are awarded for:

1. Accuracy of technique execution
2. Smoothness and control of movements
3. Correct stance and movement
4. Interaction with the partner

Prohibited actions

1. Application of excessive force in pain compliance techniques
2. Execution of techniques without control over the partner
3. Refusal to cooperate in training
4. Violation of dojo etiquette

Victory in demonstrations is awarded based on the total points for accuracy, technique, and adherence to aikido principles.

Aikido is considered one of the most harmonious and safest martial arts for the comprehensive development of personality.

Physical development

1. Development of flexibility, coordination, and balance
2. Strengthening of core, leg, and back muscles
3. Skill of tucking and safe falling in everyday situations
4. Improvement of posture and vestibular apparatus function

Psychological aspect

1. Instilling respect for the partner and instructor (bows before and after training)
2. Development of concentration, calmness, and self-control
3. Philosophy of non-violence and conflict resolution without aggression
4. Discipline and adherence to dojo etiquette

For whom it is suitable

1. 6–10 years — Initial training, GPP, learning basic elements and etiquette
2. 11–15 years — Technique practice, participation in seminars and demonstrations
3. 16+ years — Advanced level, instructor training, work with weapons

Practical benefits

Aikido is effective for self-defense due to the technique of redirecting the attack and controlling the opponent. Suitable for men and women of any age and physical fitness. Especially recommended for those seeking harmonious development of body and spirit.

On the "ProBoi" portal, you can find sections with certified coaches, where the training process is built in accordance with federal standards of sports training.